Listen

Because you’ve made the Lord my refuge, the Most High, your place of residence— no evil will happen to you; no disease will come close to your tent. Because he will order his messengers to help you, to protect you wherever you go. They will carry you with their own hands so you don’t bruise your foot on a stone.

Psalm 91:9-12

Think

When I was growing up, we did a lot of tent camping. Most of our adventures were uneventful, but occasionally we’d find ourselves camped out in the middle of a storm. Maybe even more concerning was the night we could hear coyotes howling just a little too close to our tent for comfort.

Perhaps that is why I love the imagery of the tent in this psalm. A tent is a vulnerable dwelling place. It doesn’t hold the security or permanency of a home made of brick or wood or stone. One perfectly placed gust of wind can blow the whole thing over. And canvas walls just don’t feel like they’d offer much protection if the coyotes decide to pay a visit.

Yet the psalmist promises with the Lord as our refuge, even the flimsiest dwelling places are as solid as a fortress. Even when we feel vulnerable and alone, surrounded by evil seeking to do us harm – we are held safe in God’s hands.

Jennifer Christenson

Pray

God of refuge, thank you for offering me shelter and a place to rest. Let my heart find peace within the walls of your love. Amen

Go

Servant of God, you are loved, you are holy, and you are worthy.

Now, go in peace, in humility, and in joy to serve the Savior who humbled himself for you.